The Rudolf Augstein Foundation is a non-profit and independent foundation under civil law. We commemorate one of the most important German journalists of the 20th century; through our foundation’s work, the concerns that motivated our namesake and thought leader Rudolf Augstein can continue to be addressed into the future.
We do this by encouraging critical and independent journalism, improving the starting and development opportunities of disadvantaged children and young people, and enabling artistic experiments.
20 Years of Grantmaking: Impact Beyond the Present
Since 2006, the Rudolf Augstein Stiftung has been committed to independent journalism, improved opportunities for disadvantaged children and young people, and artistic experimentation. Over the past twenty years, much has been created, while the fragility of press freedom, social participation, and cultural openness has become increasingly apparent. Our anniversary is therefore more than an occasion to look back. We see it as a moment of reflection on what has truly made an impact, where we have been able to act as a catalyst, and which responses are needed today in the face of media capture, growing social inequality, and increasing pressure on social dialogue. In 2026, we invite you to join this reflection. On LinkedIn, we share formative projects, committed partners, and key lessons learned, while looking ahead to the future of our grantmaking.
New Call for Proposals: „Hamburger Spielräume“
The application process for “Hamburger Spielräume “will open on 3 February 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Funding is available for projects in open and extracurricular child and youth work in Hamburg that provide children and young people with space for play, physical activity, creativity, and shared experiences. In 2026, three funding rounds are planned. The first round supports projects running from 24 February to 19 August 2026. Further application opportunities will follow in June and September. The fund is coordinated by the BürgerStiftung Hamburg.
